By David Groves | Washington State Labor Council
National rankings that analyze state business climates — including those by conservative “pro-business” think tanks and policy groups — consistently rank Washington among the very best states for business. They say we have comparatively low business taxes, a lighter regulatory burden, a highly skilled and highly trained workforce, excellent higher education, and for those reasons and many others, our state economy outperforms those of other states.
But when it comes to whether Washington state can continue to maintain and attract good-paying jobs, some of our elected leaders seem to have self-image problems that simply aren’t based in reality.
If Al Franken was still on Saturday Night Live portraying life coach and self-confidence guru Stuart Smalley (instead of serving in the U.S. Senate), some of our state’s elected leaders could have a session in front of his mirror repeating, “We’re good enough, we’re smart enough and doggone it, business people like us!”
The recommended therapy is simple: Stop believing the politically motivated, demonstrably untrue rhetoric generated within the state that suggests this is a bad place to do business. Instead, start looking at what national business publications and public policy organizations — which don’t have an agenda or vested interest in the outcome — are saying about us. And finally, work together to build on our considerable business-climate advantages to make Washington an even more attractive place for businesses and industries.
Check the rankings for yourself in Washington: Still a business-friendly state »
More To Read
September 28, 2023
Coming to a town near you—the EOI Policy Team!
To understand the needs and priorities of our state’s different regions, EOI is listening to the people and communities most impacted by our policy priorities.
September 12, 2023
Everyone Loses Under Washington’s Tax System
Except billionaires. And even they lose.
September 6, 2023
This Washington Shows That Washington: Proposed Federal Overtime Protections Can Go Further
Thanks to the work of advocates, thousands of Washington workers are already getting a better deal at work